WALTHAM, Mass. — A group home that’s been welcoming LGBTQ youth for over two decades in Massachusetts believes a greater number of similar resources is needed nationwide.
The Waltham House, which is part of the Home For Little Wanderers non-profit, was the first residential group home in New England designed specifically for LGBTQ youth when it opened in 2002.
At the time, it was among the first of its kind in the nation.
Staff members told Boston 25 News that a recent record wave of anti-LGBTQ policies across the country has been adding to the challenges for kids already facing precarious situations.
“Just the knowledge that there is that hate and there is that legislation actively working against these folks really does take a toll,” said Program Director Becky Smith. “It’s definitely really impactful on the mental health of our kids.”
Smith said most of the kids, ages 14 to 18, who move into the group home come through DCF.
“Over time, we’ve really transitioned from serving primarily gay men to trans and non-binary youth primarily,” she explained. “What that really comes from is there’s a real lack of foster homes in the state.”
According to Smith, many foster homes are either unable or unwilling to care for kids with gender-expansive identities.
All of the support that kids find at Waltham House prepares them for what’s next - whether it’s reunification with their families, transitioning to a foster family or embracing independent living.
The Home For Little Wanderers is now getting ready to open the first group home in New Hampshire specifically for LGBTQ youth in September.
The non-profit offers 26 different community programs across Massachusetts, New Hampshire and New York that serve youth and families.
“As we see more and more violence, more and more legislation that’s attacking trans youth across the country… Waltham House provides a respite and competent care and treatment to LGBTQ youth across Massachusetts,” said Rob Quinn, Vice President of Congregate Care at Waltham House.
A new national survey from the Trevor Project found that mental health among LGBTQ youth is worsening in part due to what it calls the current “hostile political climate”.
It surveyed 28,524 LGBTQ youth in the U.S., ages 13 to 24.
41% of those teens and young adults reported that they seriously considered attempting suicide in the previous 12 months.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.
Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
©2023 Cox Media Group
